Hiking blog

Summer Camping Tips

October 9, 2018

Camping is one of the best outdoor activities to partake in during the summer months. Yes, some hardcore adventurers will still camp in the winter months, but summer is an opportunity for anybody to give the activity a go. Whether it’s a fun vacation in a family-orientated campsite, a group of young people heading to a weekend music festival, or a group of friends going on a multi-day hike, camping is an activity that so many people take part in once summer hits.

If you love camping, you probably look forward to the summer months when you can take your recreational vehicle out to your favorite campsite. Unfortunately, even if your RV provides you with shelter during the peak heat of the day, the temperatures can get unbearable in your cabin if you do not make an effort to beat the heat. Luckily, there’re a number of ways to keep cool during the hot summer days when you are trying to enjoy Mother Nature in all of her beauty.

However, even if you are doing a relatively leisurely type of camping, there are still things you need to know about summer camping. When you are not prepared and you don’t know what you need to know, you will not have fun and could be putting yourself and others in danger. While camping is extremely fun, this is usually because people are prepared for summer camping. To make your summer camping success, here are some great camping tips to help you.

1. Block the Sun

You must understand how your recreational vehicle heats up during the day to understand how you can effectively beat the heat. As the sun rays shine through the doors and the windows of your RV, heat transference will lead to higher temperatures in the space. By blocking the sun around the windows and the doors, you can reduce the heat transference to keep the enclosed space cool. If you install an awning or cover, you can block the sun from coming directly through transparent surfaces like your windows and doors.

2. Service Your AC Before You Hit the Road

The air conditioner in your RV will help you beat the summer heat and also the humidity. Before you start it all, you have to make sure that you have had your cooling system serviced and inspected. You should have the filter replaced and inspect the unit for any signs of damage. Be sure to check the gasket between the roof of your RV and the AC for signs of deterioration. Clean the coils of the unit to remove debris that can cause inefficiency. Doing this will ensure that your cooling system blows cool air when you need to escape from the heat.

3. Choose a Shaded Campsite

Your awnings and covers can only block out so much sun. The heat from the air surrounding your RV will travel through the walls of your cabin to heat up space. If you can secure a campsite under a tree with ample shade, you can minimize the intense heat by eliminating the direct sun exposure. This will reduce the amount of time you must run your AC while still keeping the space bearable.

4. Do Not Cook During Peak Times

You may love having a fully functional kitchen, but do not use appliances in the kitchen that can heat up the space. Your range and stove will become interior heat sources, and it is best to avoid using these heat sources until nighttime. Opt to use a microwave or to cook over a fire or a grill instead to stay cool.

5. Think and Dress Cool

Buying covers and awnings will keep interior temperatures cool, but you also need to think and dress cool while you are camping. Make sure you pack light-colored clothing that is breathable. Moisture-wicking clothing is perfect for camping during the summer. Nylon and polyester clothing also breaths well when you are active. Avoid dark and cotton clothing, which absorbs heat.

You may think that because it’s warm out that you don’t need a good quality tent for overnight summer camping. This is something that you should think twice about. Even in hot countries, it can get quite cold at night, and windy too. A good quality tent will help with temperature control and remain sturdy when it is windy outside. It’s worth spending some money on a good quality tent, as it will last a long time. You could even share it with friends and that way the cost is minimized.

7. Mosquitoes

Another thing that you need to know about overnight summer camping is that you may need to prepare for mosquitoes. Do your own research and try see if there are mosquitoes in the area you are choosing to camp in. These are generally near rivers and lakes. In North America, there is little risk for disease spread by mosquitoes, but it is still wise to wear a repellent, as the bites are painful and itchy and can often put a damper on camping trips, as it can be difficult to sleep with the irritation. Again mosquitoes cause malaria so you should not predispose you to them as many summer vacation areas are prone to mosquito breeding.

8. Be Prepared For Emergencies

Although unlikely, emergencies do sometimes happen while camping. Always have a way to contact emergency services when camping. While most cell phones lose signal in the woods, it is often still possible to make emergency calls, so make sure it is charged and that you have backup battery packs. If going on a more extreme camping trip, it might be worthwhile looking into a satellite phone or radio.

Beating the heat is all about buying the right accessories, packing the right clothing, the right food, and being strategic with your activities during your trip. Create memories and stay cool in the process on this summer’s RV camping trip. Enjoy your time lounging in your RV and being active outdoors, and keep these tips in mind before you hit the road. Stay hydrated, stay covered, and alternate your time indoors and outdoors during the peak heat of the day.

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Sofia James

December 21, 2017 at 6:14 am

As we know Camping is one of the best outdoor activities in during the summer months. Your blog gives information about outdoor activities, which is very important for us. Thanks for sharing this blog.